"vapour control layer"

Nestled in the vibrant heart of London, Sancroft is an office building that stands tall, a commanding structure that spans over 10 floors with 2 levels of basement with a GIA of circa 429,000sqft. When the building’s architects, Buckley Gray Yeoman Ltd, were tasked with providing intensive ventilation in the building, they turned to Price Engineered Solutions for advice. Price Engineered Solutions, renowned for their leadership in supplying heating and ventilation components for key projects across the UK. They recommended the architects to work with DUCO for the installation of intensive ventilation. A Breath of Fresh Air: Continuous louvre walls with value for moneyTo ensure the Sancroft building is ventilated naturally and continuously it was decided to install the sturdy, robust aluminium louvre-wall system, DucoWall Screening 70 & 75.John Biss, Contracts Manager from Price Engineering Ltd, explains: “The selection of the DucoWall Screening 70/75 was purly down to our recommendations and budget constraints. DUCO's louvre-wall system emerged as the ideal choice in terms of cost-effectivness.” Innovative design and aesthetic appearanceWhat sets this project apart is its innovative design, which distinguishes it from the neighbouring structures.John Biss continues: “This project is truly unique due to its innovative design. For instance, we had to incorporate bracketry to support a wire trelis that over time, will host climbing plants. . The sleek appearance of the DucoWall Screening adds to the uniqueness of the building”.Super-quick assembly and high airflowThe Z-shaped louvre blades of the DucoWall Screening are clicked directly onto the support section thanks to a direct clip system, ensuring super-quick assembly. The very large span and high airflow of the louvre wall ensures high ventilation values and thus an optimal indoor climate for all office workers present.John Biss : « With Duco’s patented ‘Direct Clip’ system, the louvre blades are clicked onto the support section directly, ensuring fast installation. In a world where everything has to be delivered very quickly and the next job is waiting in line, this is a very welcome asset!”Fine collaboration and postive feedbackThe collaboration between other parties, such as Britplas, leading commercial glazing specialist in the UK, and the engineers and contractors was very great. We had open communications between all parties involved which led to yet another project going off without a hitch”. Our client expressed profound satisfied, not only with the DucoWall Screening louvre wall but also with our adapt management of the design and installation process all while minimizing disruptoin to other trades” As John Biss aptly concludes,” We’ve delivered a project that exceeds expectations, offering a breath of fresh air in every sense” Architect: Buckley Gray Yeoman LtdBuilding contractor: Price Engineered SolutionsCommercial glazing specialist: Britplas     

Our recent project at LIDL RDC in Houghton Regis, near London, struck a perfect balance between looks and functionality using DucoWall Screening 35. This case study shows how the DUCO louvre wall system met key performance and construction needs while improving the building's appearance.Challenges at LIDL LutonThe LIDL RDC, the world's largest at £300m, spans about 1.2 million ft2 and stretches nearly half a kilometer next to the M1 motorway. A major challenge in such a large retail project is keeping construction swift.The DucoWall Screening 35's direct clip system was a game-changer, cutting installation time by about 50% compared to traditional methods.The site included eleven external staircases, two towering at 33m, posing significant challenges with wind loads and alignment.Solution: DucoWall Screening 35Tony Colborne of Conttego found DucoWall Screening 35 to be the adaptable solution needed.“Overall, we were very happy with the project. The DucoWall Screening 35 was installed at a pitch of 112 mm and the direct clip system meant that we were able to align the mullions quickly and accurately. Using a mixture of the mullions available meant we were able to maximise the spans, without the need for secondary supports. The blade gives a great connection strength, and the overall speed of install was a huge benefit.”DucoWall Screening's direct clip system is designed to screen equipment, staircases, and other structures architects and clients prefer out of sight. It offers two blade sizes and various mullions, with blades adjustable to three different pitches, tailoring to project needs.Results and feedbackThe project was a success, exceeding expectations in speed, efficiency, and overall outcome. DucoWall Screening 35 proved to be an effective future solution.Architect: IMA ArchitectsContractor: JungheinrichDUCO Partner: Conttego Louvres, Bridport

The North Devon Enterprise Centre in county Devon was constructed using sustainable materials and techniques.DUCO also played a role in this with its intensive ventilation techniques.Main contractor ISG has constructed the Enterprise Centre at Devon County Council’s Roundswell Enterpise Park development. The centre has been designed to offer flexible office accommodation for small and medium size businesses that are looking to grow. The building was constructed using sustainable materials and techniques.DUCO also played a role in this with its intensive ventilation techniques.Environmentally sustainable buildingThe Enterprise Centre, which is known as NODE, has still a few office facilities for sale, but most of the facilities were sold already by companies both local and from the county.The design and construction of the building was developed with environmental sustainability in mind, resulting in the achievement of the BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) Excellent Status.Intensive ventilation for a healthy indoor climateDUCO is proud to be part of this achievement through the installation of its high-end intensive ventilation products in the Enterprise Centre’s building. One thing’s for sure: no compromises were made on ventilation in this project.No fewer than three high-performance DUCO ventilation products can be found in the building. Combined, they provide sufficient intensive ventilation in the entire building.DucoGrille Solid F 30Z window grilles are made of punched solid louvre blades which are very robust and equipped with an insect screen. A reinforced version of this frame profile can acheive burglar-resistance to Class 2.DucoGrille Solid G 30Z is a recesses mounted wall louvre, manufactured from extruded aluminium profiles. The perforated blade profiles act as an insect screen, whereas the Z-shaped blade ensures a robust design.DucoGrille Close 105 blade dampers were installed and fitted with the DucoGrille Solid window grilles. Thanks to the high airflow rate the DucoGrille Close 105 damper is also suitable for adjustable extract. It allows fresh air from the outside enter the Enterprise Centre building through the building envelope ensuring a healthy indoor climate!

Project DescriptionThe refurbishment of the historic Central Bank site into the iconic Central Plaza, which is a multi-phase scheme, is one of the largest and most prestigious construction projects being carried out in Dublin city centre, Ireland.Partel was playing its part since the early stages of the restoration, and this year brought again its expertise in fire-rated vapour control systems, supporting the latest expansion scheme of the building with a two-storey glass-roofed structure, that completes the existing tower.Teaming up with Castle Group, the plan for roof expansion involved passive fire protection measures and an appropriate airtightness strategy, using Partel’s IZOPERM PLUS A2 vapour control system.Steel Roof Structure and Internal WallThe design of the new steel roof construction has a complex geometric structure, following the exposed suspensions of the building – with cantilevering triangles. It consists of multiple steel RHS that are connected to each other by hidden connections. The contemporary structure is a monolithic steel frame without expansion joints. Quite a challenge in regard to thermal expansion. For this project, fire protection of the roof structure and internal wall assemblies were top priorities, considering the specific requirements regarding stability, structural integrity and fire safety in the building.Airtightness and Fire ProtectionPartel’s Euroclass A2-s1,d0 product system – IZOPERM PLUS A2 membrane and ECHOSEAL ALU FR adhesive tape – were used in order to improve the fabric performance. The solid walls had to be airtight, insulated, and fire-resistant in order to ensure that what was designed could be delivered.The team chose to deliver airtightness measure to external walls with an appropriate fire-rated vapour control system, such as IZOPERM PLUS A2, with high durability, mechanical strength, and moisture management properties. With unrivalled low emissivity of 0.05, the reflective surface can dramatically improve the thermal performance and prevent heat radiation. The team wanted to make sure a tested and compliant solution will be implemented, and the products will perform in a scenario where the building is exposed to a fire.In addition, fire safety in this tall, high-risk building with a large number of visitors and tenants, with open spaces and mobility consideration, the IZOPERM PLUS A2 fire-rated membrane plays a crucial role when incorporated into the wider fire engineering strategy. The membrane offers superior levels of fire performance and a very limited contribution to fire, furthermore, during a fire it will not pose a risk of smoke inhalation for people, as it produces minimal to no smoke and does not release flaming droplets.Sealing the membrane overlaps using Partel ECHOSEAL ALU A2 non-combustible adhesive tape, secured the level of airtightness and fire-resistance. This aluminium foil tape provides excellent cohesion, adhesion, and thermal stability, serving as an excellent barrier against moisture, and flame.The steel roof construction was covered with 152 glass units to facilitate maximum light.Designed by the Henry J. Lyons Architects, the rooftop venue incorporates a 360° viewing terrace of 15,500 sq ft, a crowning touch of this modern restoration project.The previous phase scheme of the Central Plaza redevelopment improved the energy efficiency of the building, airtightness and thermal performance using the ECHOFOIL IZO membrane together with CONEXO MULTISEAL adhesive tape.

Headquartered in London, vXtream is a leading Private Cloud Managed Service Provider that has 7 global data centre locations. Having built up 2 years’ experience, vXtream services are relied upon by international companies, businesses of all sizes, and creative professionals. In order to protect their vast clientele’s data and hardware, a multi-layered security approach has been put in place featuring 24/7 on-site security, high-definition CCTV cameras, and biometric security approved by the NPSA (National Protective Security Authority). ChallengeDue to the ISO27001 certification that vXtream holds, they are committed to continuous improvement and risk management; therefore, a further layer of security was identified as needed for their data hall. This further layer of security had the challenge of preventing tailgating into the data hall to ensure access could be controlled and monitored. The solution would also need to integrate with vXtream new biometric system to enable fingerprint recognition entry. As well as this, the space within the data hall needed to be preserved so that further expansion could happen in the future with the data centre’s planned growth.  To find out more please follow the link. vXtream Data Centre - Case Studies - Meesons

This is a mixed-use development, planed by Marks Barfield Architects, creating 17 new homes. The purpose of this project is to promote the wellbeing of people, embracing circadian design principles. The building will include gardens and planting areas alongside office spaces, with a “forest floor” to the atrium spilling into the reception of the building. In this project Effisus Vapour FR Class A2 system was used to prevent the condensation risk, improving the airtightness and consequently the energy efficiency of the building, applying an A1 Vapour FR membrane.

The completion of a stunning new Hilton hotel at Silverstone is another step nearer and leads the way featuring the superior high-performance Wraptite external airtightness barrier.The impressive new hotel, located trackside, overlooks the starting grid for the home of the iconic British Grand Prix. Facilities include 197 guest rooms, a rooftop terrace and the offer of race-day hospitality experiences.KKA Architecture designed the hotel, with Metclad Contracts appointed as the specialist envelope contractor for the project.Wraptite airtightness membrane from the A. Proctor Group, specialists in supplying high-performance products to protect buildings, was selected by Metclad to maximise airtightness and energy efficiency, perfectly balanced with the crucial requirements of vapour permeabilityWraptite self-adhesive breather membrane is applied externally, quickly and efficiently as part of the rainscreen system. Incorporating the Wraptite System helps ensure “as-designed” performance. Its inclusion narrows the gap between asdesigned and actual energy performance whilst reducing the likelihood of possible failures to meet required airtightness levels.Traditionally air barriers have been fitted internally. The internal installation of an air barrier necessitates accommodating building services such as electrical, lighting, heating and drainage systems, thereby increasing the gap between as designed and built. However, the Wraptite membrane fully bonds externally to virtually any substrate, requiring no additional mechanical attachment, seals or tapes to suppress air leakage around junctions or penetrations.The high vapour permeability of Wraptite allows the substrate beneath to dry quickly and moisture vapour to escape and reduces the likelihood of mould, mildew, condensation, timber distortion and metal corrosion.Wraptite is the only self-adhering vapour permeable air barrier certified by the BBA and combines the critical properties of vapour permeability and airtightness in one self-adhering membrane. Quite simply, providing a winning performance in advanced membrane technology for buildings.

A lot of DucoGrille Classic G50 High Performance louvre grilles can be found in the new Tottenham Hotspur FC Football stadium, North London. Energy Design Solutions fabricated, supplied and fitted this project. The DucoGrille Classic 50HP has been developed especially for intensive ventilation. The uniquely shaped ‘High Performance’ louvre blade with a low resistance factor ensures excellent airflow. All types are manufactured from extruded aluminium sections. Insect mesh is fitted as standard.

Student accommodations are places where students spend a lot of time studying, exercising, networking and developing life skills. All the more important these accommodations have their a comfortable indoor climate. Student house provider YUGO understood this very clear when they decided to install the DucoMax acoustic window vents in the student house Bailey Point in Bournemouth.Holistic living experienceStudent house provider YUGO is an organization that strives to create a holistic living experience for each student. So, it is not just about living and learning. It’s about the broader picture: giving students a supportive place to grow, on and off campus in a healthy way.An important aspect of this holistic way of life is the indoor climate in all living spaces of the student houses, Bailey Point included. This is where DUCO comes in with its acoustic, self-regulating vents DucoMax.Mastering Urban SoundHealthy accommodations that are comfortable, not too hot and nice and quiet. That is the goal. Self-regulating acoustic window vents DucoMax SR can achieve this goal perfectly.Tom Revitt, sales manager UK & I explains:DucoMax SR window vents are ideally suited for high-rise buildings exposed to a lot of external noise, which is the case at Bailey Point student house. The sound-absorbing vents help to keep out ambient noise. Very important when you know that noise pollution has a negative effect on students' health and concentration.““Moreover, our window vents integrate neatly into the facade and have been extensively tested in our own acoustic lab, as well as by 3rd party accredited laboratories. Nothing is left to chance. And so it should be. After all, this is about our future, the students.More about student housing solutions

Koster Aquatecnic were approached to investigate flooring problems at the Hasbury Methodist Church in Halesowen. Issues relating the vapour release through the existing concrete slab was discovered, with readings above 85% RH. Following extensive preparation works, the Koster range of epoxy vapour barriers and moisture mitigation systems were installed, in line with detailed method statements produced by the Koster Technical team.Please ready through the case study, if you have any questions or would like assistance in designing a similar project please contact the Koster Technical team on technical@kosteruk.com.

For the basement laboratories, Planet used p100 demountable double-glazed full-height partitions with two layers of 15mm toughened glass to reach heights in excess of three metres. The partitioning framework was set within the steel grid structure, ensuring an industrial look and incorporating slimline single-glazed and SonoTec double glazed doors with integrated venetian blinds. Planet provided a full blackout option for lab work on sensitive ancient human remains. Planet AG was responsible for the full-height atrium glazing, using 19.5mm toughened laminated glass. It required carefully spaced holes for securing attenuators that control airflow within the building.

The range of Koster flooring systems were specified for use on this large warehouse project in Plymouth. The existing concrete slab and coatings were being effected badly from vapour drive and osmotic blistering so following full investigations by the Koster Technical team, the Koster VAP I 2000 was chosen as the primary form of protection thus preventing further vapour drive and outgassing. A fast application and setting material, this meant a short factory down time and a guaranteed solution.Please read the full case study. For more information or if you would like assistance on a similar project, please contact the Koster technical team at technical@kosteruk.com.

Triton products, including liquid applied TT Vapour Membrane, were specified to form a ground gas barrier system in the redevelopment of listed almshouses situated in close proximity to a landfill site.

Nestled in the fashionable, switched-onNestled in the fashionable, switched-on London borough of Camden, high-performance London Max Fordham House has been completed  to the highest energy saving standards with to the highest energy saving standards with SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT.An ultra-low energy, all-electric, contemporary three-bedroom ‘Passivhaus’, Max Fordham House is specifically designed by bere: architects to feature a thermal envelope geared towards reducing heat loss. The less heat lost from a building, the more overall environmentally efficient it can be. One way to do achieve as little heat loss as possible is making the building airtight, which is the aim of the Passivhaus system.SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT, a structural OSB panel with integrated vapour control developed by MEDITE SMARTPLY especially for use in Passivhaus construction, is the vital ingredient in this project. Specified by the award-winning Bow Tie Construction company, SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT provides a state-of-the-art, engineered vapour barrier with consistently high vapour resistance over the entire surface.“The house uses a fabric-first Passivhaus approach, requiring only a fraction of the energy needed by a similarly sized home built to the minimum requirements of UK Building Regulations, for all uses including “The house uses a fabric-first Passivhaus approach, requiring only a fraction of the energy needed by a similarly sized home built to the minimum requirements of UK Building Regulations, for all uses including heating,” Hagop Heath-Matossian, Business Development Manager at Bow Tie Construction, says.“We chose to specify SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT because it is efficient, reliable and it was important to us that all timber products used were sustainably manufactured and sourced; AIRTIGHT offered us a guaranteed sustainable timber solution. Vitally, the client was delighted with the end result.”Max Fordham House, which was completed in the Spring of 2019 and achieves an Energy Performance Certificate of B 83, is the third project that Bow Tie Construction has specified PROPASSIV for, favouring it for its rigidity and quality assurance compared to a traditional membrane-based system.Hagop explains: “AIRTIGHT was specifically used to insulate the roof of the Max Fordham House, but has been used within the entire interior space in other Passivhaus projects previously, to great success.”In most Passivhaus projects in the UK, a membrane is used as an airtight barrier for the properties’ insulation, however, such solutions can be easily damaged during the construction process. SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT offers a solution to this as it will not come apart during a negative pressure test like a membrane would.

CMS DANSKIN ACOUSTICS recommended a bespoke combination of industrial acoustic materials to ensure noise at work compliance at ExxonMobil Oil Refinery. The ChallengeFawley Oil Refinery is the largest oil refinery in the UK. When ExxonMobil found that the noise output from two industrial fans at the refinery exceeded the levels specified by The Control of Noise at Work Regulations, it consulted CMS Danskin Acoustics for advice. To ensure the most cost effective and high performing materials were specified, CMS Danskin Acoustics evaluated the noise reduction required on-site. Evaluation of the acoustic data revealed that noise levels in excess of 118dB at 125Hz were being emitted by the fans. Based on these criteria, the technical team at CMS Danskin Acoustics recommended the use of a combination of specialist materials from its industrial acoustic range. The SolutionTo control the low frequency-biased sound, CMS Danskin Acoustics recommended and supplied the SuperLag Quietslab Laminate with Acoustic Barrier Type WB10 combination for the fan casings and associated ductwork. Creating a multi-layered, high performance system, two layers of SuperLag Quietslab Laminate, totalling 250mm thickness, with a core of 5mm Acoustic Barrier Type WB10, were bonded onto the fan casings and ductwork. A direct coupled lagging system, SuperLag Quietslab Laminate comprises long-stranded mineral fibres thermo-set with resins for the absorption of sound at the surface, as well as a high mass inner acoustic barrier core to reduce the transmission of sound through the material. Manufactured from a weight-enhanced, high-density material, Acoustic Barrier Type WB10 provides a flexible and cost effective treatment for chemical and refinery applications. In total, 1,000m2 of the SuperLag Quietslab Laminate/Acoustic Barrier Type WB10 materials were installed around the fans and ductwork to achieve the high levels of sound reduction required.ResultsThe high performance bespoke system specified by CMS Danskin Acoustics, significantly reduced the noise generated by the fans. This enabled ExxonMobil to comply with The Control of Noise at Work Regulations by bringing noise levels under the 85dB compliance level.

Ashley Road East (ARE) is a new 183-unit mixed-use development located in Tottenham Hale, set to play an important role in defining the area’s regeneration with the construction of two residential blocks, retail and office space.Due to the developments prime London location, Farrat were contacted at pre-construction phase to help develop a variety of isolation solutions to mitigate against both structural and thermal disturbances impacting building performance.Challenge 01: Low frequency ground-borne noise and vibrationFarrat Solution: Building Vibration Isolation SystemA key challenge when building in London is the surrounding network of the London Underground, railway lines, high traffic roads and activity from the busy city life, and this development is no exception. Vibration generated from the London Underground Victoria Line would cause significant structural problems and without building vibration isolation there would be a high risk of disruption from structure-borne noise.Farrat designed a Base Vibration Isolation system as the most efficient long-term solution for ARE, to ensure a comfortable and safe environment for the entire lifetime of the building. The Farrat assemblies within the system were designed, manufactured and then supplied by Farrat directly to the ARE site. Throughout the construction phase, Farrat supported the project team with regular on-site installation guidance and post-installation inspection.Challenge 2: Thermal bridging in high-rise balcony connectionsFarrat Solution: Fire-rated Structural Thermal Breaks (Farrat TBF)Balconies are a great way of introducing an outside space to apartments and are becoming an increasingly attractive feature to developers, designers and end users alike. Even before COVID-19, a balcony could add up to 12% to the price of a home without a garden and this rises to as much as 25% in Chelsea. With balconies however, comes another leading consideration for designers of apartment buildings – fire safety. It is becoming increasingly critical that all building materials used above 18m are certified as fire safe and that this consideration is worked in at early design stage, to ensure they meet safe buildings standards.With this is mind, our A2 certified fire resistant Structural Thermal Break, Farrat TBF, was selected for use between balcony connections on this new London development. The high rigidity of Farrat TBF will effectively impose stiffness on potentially flexible connections in balconies, avoiding bounce and making for a more reassuring and safe experience.Farrat in London redevelopmentAshley Road East is just one of many projects currently underway in the country’s capital with the help of Farrat. If you take a walk through London you will see evidence of our teams hard work across a large number of redevelopments and projects. #onamission

F. Ball products have been used to create a high-quality flooring finish at a London Hospital for the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust. Contractors were called to install a combination of vinyl sheet and safety flooring. Stopgap F78 was applied in two coats, to provide a quick and effective barrier against excess subfloor moisture which could attack subsequent adhesives and floorcoverings. Stopgap 300 HD levelling compound was then applied to provide a smooth, hard-wearing base for the receipt of new floorcoverings. The new vinyl sheet was then applied using Styccobond F46 Pressure Sensitive Adhesive.

Cygnet Hospital, a new state of the art medical campus based in Maidstone required a waterproofing membrane for the newly installed concrete and metal decks. Proteus Waterproofing applied their Cold Melt® membrane, to provide a seamless leak protection to the inverted roof, that was then finished with Proteus Waterproofing’s Pro-Living® Green Roof. High Performance WaterproofingFirstly, the metal deck for the main roof was prepared and overlaid with Pro-Vapour Control SA, a self-adhesive bituminous waterproofing membrane that forms a barrier against vapour and gases, ready for the Proteus Pro-Therm PIR Insulation and Cold Melt® waterproofing installations.Proteus Pro-Therm PIR is stable, rot proof and will remain effective as an insulation system for the lifetime of the waterproofing covering, making it suitable for new builds. Cold Melt® waterproofing was then overlaid to the main roof and upstands. The exposed areas were covered with Cold Melt® UV Top Coat, making the waterproofing UV stable. Cold Melt® provides a seamless leak protection and is cold applied, therefore removing the risk of fire. The roof was completed with a Pro-Living® Green Roof providing ecological benefits for the building. Health and SafetyWhen working on occupied buildings, safety is of utmost importance. Proteus Waterproofing’s Cold Melt® system is cold applied and low odour, therefore meeting all necessary health and safety requirements. Cold Melt® is quick, simple and safe to apply allowing the Proteus Approved Contractor to successfully complete the project to a high standard within a short time frame, whilst ensuring the planned building works continued to run on schedule.Long Term PerformanceIncorporating recycled rubber crumb and organically grown products, Cold Melt® creates an elastomeric, seamless, cold applied waterproofing membrane. Cold Melt® system can include inverted roof insulation and, with or without insulation, can be designed as a paved, ballasted, green or brown roof. The membrane is made in the UK, does not become brittle with age and is BBA Certified to last the life of the structure.

The circular building, where legends like The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix and Pink Floyd began, was redeveloped and reopened in 2006. FOAMGLAS® insulation was used for the floor, the façade and the flat roof, ensuring water and vapour resistance despite the open nature of the façade. It is also non-combustible and waterproof.

With the introduction of new sports areas and a sixth form college, The Belper School faced a significant shortage of parking spaces. The growing demand for additional parking became evident as staff, visitors, and students resorted to parking on grassed areas. Consequently, numerous muddy patches emerged around the school grounds, negatively impacting the area's aesthetics and making it increasingly inaccessible. Moreover, this led to an increase in the amount of mud brought inside the school, placing a greater burden on the caretaking and cleaning staff.To address the drainage issues and offer an environmentally friendly alternative to concrete or tarmac, the school opted for X-Grid® as a permeable alternative for traditional car park surfacing. The school identified several areas around the premises as suitable locations for the car parks and proceeded to excavate them. A compacted hardcore base made of MoT-type stone was used to establish a strong and stable sub-base for the X-Grid®. By placing a geotextile membrane over the hardcore, the school minimised the risk of weed growth and created a separation layer between the build-up layers. The X-Grid® was then installed on a well-screeded sand blinding layer and filled with durable decorative gravel.By replacing the existing grassed areas with X-Grid® filled with gravel, Belper School successfully resolved their overcrowded car parks without the need for additional drainage infrastructure. The highly permeable nature of X-Grid® facilitated the controlled dispersion of surface water back into the water table. Consequently, the amount of mud around the school grounds was significantly reduced, virtually eliminating it altogether. This enabled the availability of parking spaces throughout the year, providing staff, visitors, and students with ample parking options while preserving the aesthetic appeal of their surroundings. Moreover, the use of X-Grid® ensured that the gravel remained in place, eliminating migration and greatly reducing surface maintenance requirements, thus keeping the areas looking as attractive as possible.

Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in London, the best-known animal sanctuary in the world, is currently undergoing the biggest development in its 154-year history - a £5 million scheme delivered by main contractor, Sir Robert McAlpine. The development will bring the charity’s existing buildings and facilities into the 21st century and will include a new build, state of the art veterinary hospital which will be protected by an innovative new waterproof membrane – Cold Melt® from Proteus – a seamless application designed to work in harmony with the roof infrastructure and so tough that it has been BBA certified to last for the lifetime of the building.Quality Control An integral part of this transformation is the built up roofing system of 1,200 square metres of Cold Melt®. Applied by the Proteus Licenced Contractor, a 5 layer built up system was employed to offer a bespoke specification tailored to the client’s needs and budget.The built up system consisted of a layer of Cold Melt® Proteus’ own innovative, cold-applied liquid membrane, over which an insulation layer of Proteus Pro-Therm XPS was laid. The Licenced Contractor then added a separator sheet of Proteus Low-K followed by an attenuation mat and then three different finishes in three different areas of the roof – paving slabs, a green roof and decking.Health & Safety Proteus’ liquid applied systems are cold installed and therefore negate all the elements of fire risk when working in confined spaces. Of particular importance was the low odour that Cold Melt® exhibits, meeting all the health and safety criteria necessary to protect both the Licenced Contractor’s operatives and the dogs and cats home’s residents.Long term performance Cold Melt® incorporates recycled rubber-crumb and other organically grown products and when covered, creates an elastomeric, seamless and cold applied membrane which has a life expectancy longer that the design life of the building on which it is installed.

reSAWN used Accoya because of its extreme durability, exterior weathering capabilities, FSC® certification, exterior warranty, & the hardness of Accoya. Charred using the ancient Japanese technique of shou sugi ban, MATSU is finished without brushing off the soft charcoal layer. This layer is a sacrificial wear layer that will flake slowly (as is expected for any natural building product) over time to reveal a blackened effect underneath with variations in colour, grey to brown tones – perfect for this heavily wooden landscape.

The 16,500m2 new Faculty of Social Sciences building is designed to meet the future growth demands of the department up to the year 2035 and creates a world class, BREEAM outstanding building that encourages collaboration and enhances the Faculty’s reputation for excellence in teaching and research.The landscape design for the new University of Sheffield building set out to create a large area of public realm on the social sciences campus, with provision for sustainable drainage systems including extensive use of tree pits and rain gardens. As part of the SuDS design specifications, a Blue Roof stormwater drainage system was considered as an alternative option to underground attenuation tanks to keep surface water run-off within the discharge consent.ABG were able to demonstrate that specifying a shallow Blue Roof attenuation layer involved much lower carbon emissions than excavating underground storage tanks.The volume of vehicle movements required to install underground stormwater attenuation compared to the ABG blueroof system was calculated (delivered from ABG’s factory based 25 miles away), and a carbon footprint saving of 59% was estimated. The reduction in construction emissions was deemed particularly important given the site’s proximity to the Royal Hallamshire Hospital.The 108mm ABG blueroof system design was fitted over a 4,500m2 roof catchment area by the ABG Installs team over a period of 8 weeks. The inverted roof system build-up includes a 245mm XPS insulation installed onto the waterproofing with a Water Flow Reducing Layer (WFRL) above. The ABG Deckdrain 4mm geocomposite drainage layer is installed above a 100mm void former, wrapped in a Terrex NW20 geotextile layer to prevent debris entering the drainage voids. The roof build-up is completed with a surface finish combination of stone ballast and 63mm pavers.For the majority of the year, the roof drains into the rainwater outlets as normal, however during prolonged spells of heavy rainfall the void formers begin to temporarily attenuate the stormwater. During storm periods the rainfall outflow rate is slowed using 13 stainless steel restrictor chambers, positioned above each rainwater outlet.This controls the volume of water that is able to discharge from the roof during the storm, minimising surface water run-off and reducing the risk of flooding in the local area. The system is calculated to only reach maximum attenuation volume during a 1-in-100 year storm event, as calculated using the Flood Estimation Handbook rainfall data for Sheffield, plus 40% allowance for climatic change. The system features an integrated overflow outlet in the event a storm occurs that exceeds this designed capacity.

When developing new buildings, it is always important to consider the environmental impact. Responsible sourcing of materials is high on every priority list, along with reducing waste to landfill. But what about the local impact, such as the effects on local wildlife? A living roof/green roof system, such as the one installed by the Premier Contractor at Seaford Head Golf Club, is a very clear example of the steps that can be taken towards reducing this impact and providing an alternative space for wildlife to inhabit. A warm roof system was installed onto a structural plywood deck, after which a vapour barrier and insulation boards were mechanically fastened to provide both thermal efficiency and air leakage control. After the underlying installation had been suitably restrained in accordance with a site-specific wind uplift calculation, the roof membrane was mechanically fastened to complete the waterproofing system. Our PVC roof membranes have been tested and can be utilised without the need for additional root prevention barriers (test standard EN 13948), and because PVC is extremely lightweight, they are the perfect choice for these applications, reducing pressure on the underlying structure. In conjunction with our Living Roof/Green Roof specialists, a site-specific living roof system was supplied and installed over the completed waterproofing.Waterproofing System:DANOSA Single Ply 1.5mm - AnthraciteConstruction Type:New BuildWarm RoofSector:LeisureApprox. Size:900m2Warranty Period:20 Years

During the restoration process the external façade was decorated to create high quality light Portland stone and bath stone paint effects, onto the render substrate, using KEIM Restauro Lasur. The subtle stone appearance created by the system will offer unparalleled longevity and protection. The colours are UV stable and therefore will not fade and the coating is moisture vapour permeable so doesn’t trap moisture in the substrate.

Koster Flooring systems were used in the refurbishment of a hotel in London as a part of a complete basement waterproofing solution.Due to height restrictions, a waterproofing system and functioning vapour barrier with self leveled finish were required within a 10mm build up. We achieved this using the Koster VAP Lite System.For more information or for a for assistance with a full specification, please contact technical@kosteruk.com.

The roof of this listed building had been renovated multiple times in the past. The roof was originally built to be highly vapour-proof, as was the standard at the time. Solving the construction physics requirements was the job of Buschina & Partner Ziviltechniker GmbH. The particular challenge lay in the fact thatthe outer shell of the building cannot be altereda solution that worked from a construction physics perspective had to be found for the attic conversion with interior thermal insulation

Keep your lab safe and the air clean with quality fume extraction equipment Remove hazardous or just unpleasant vapours, gasses and dusts from the work environment with effective extraction arms. BROEN-LAB offers a full range of high quality products for the modern laboratory. Anodized aluminum with polypropylene (PP) joints Chemical resistant polypropylene (PP) Conductive, shatterproof, chemical resistant polypropylene (PP)

London 1 Data Centre has been in operation since December 2020, providing a critical IT load of 32MW. Located in Dagenham, it takes up 25,600m2 of data centre server space. It joins the existing data centres that the client currently operates in Hemel Hempstead and Slough.With a layered security approach, London 1 Data Centre prioritises keeping their customers data protected. The multiple security measures include a 24/7 Security Operations Centre and Service Control Centre, CCTV, and physical security.ChallengeAs one of the UK’s largest data centres, the client had the issue of needing to secure the building from intruders with a range of entrance solutions. With several areas that were at risk, the client required multiple ways of protecting the data centre from physical attack while managing its high throughput. To find out more please follow the link. London 1 Data Centre, Dagenham | Meesons A I Ltd | NBS Source (thenbs.com)

Raithwaite Hall is a 5 star, 45 bed boutique hotel set in 85 acres of wooded valleys within the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. The hotel offers terraced views of the landscape and across the Whitby coastline. A new extension was designed that is built against the hillside with stepped landscaped areas around the new building and an intensive green roof terrace to help blend the structure in with the surrounding gardens.The intensive green roof terrace is installed directly above a new function and dining room and required a specialised design to accommodate the additional loading and provide the necessary drainage for the turf lawn.     By utilising a multi-purpose geocomposite roof drainage board, the green roof system could be achieved to meet the project specific requirements. The ABG Deckdrain 2540S-NW20XUV product offers a lightweight option that delivers the equivalent drainage capacity of 300mm of drainage stone in a 25mm layer that weighs over a 100 times less per square metre. The lightweight drainage layer is supplied in rolls and is fast to install and move into position. The Deckdrain layer includes an integrated filter geotextile bonded to the top of the cuspated core. This prevents the growing media layer from intruding into the drainage void and filters the soil to prevent clogging. The Deckdrain is made from a high strength HDPE core that supports the 200mm deep layer of growing media required for the intensive green roof installation with deeper root systems. The underside of the product is impermeable and provides additional protection to the liquid waterproofing membrane. A green roof surface finish further helps to prolong the lifespan of the waterproofing layer and prevent UV degradation. The large grassed area on the podium also reduces surface water run-off and the grass is protected against waterlogging via the efficient drainage board layer. The shallow drainage build-up required also reduces the height of the steps onto the terrace and the associated cost of stone flags. The completed installation encompasses a 20mm Roofdrain drainage & reservoir board to support a secondary smaller sedum roof area, as well as Deckdrain layers installed for structural drainage to the surfaces around the patio slab and retaining wall areas.ABG provided a full green roof project design, installation and maintenance service for the project.

The ChallengeFounded in 1432, Sevenoaks boarding school is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the country with some of the buildings dating from the 17th Century. The client requested an easy-to-use, energy-efficient underfloor heating solution in rooms of different uses across the school that would have a negligible impact on floor heights. The installation of the system would also have to be considerate of the historic nature of the building.The SolutionDue to the need for a low floor build-up and with a project featuring a mix of floor finishes, our Foil Heater was the ideal choice for an easy-to-use and quick to install underfloor heating system. The Foil Heater is perfect for use with the school’s carpeted and wooden floor finishes and was installed in conjunction the Dual Overlay System when fitted with the carpeted flooring for a stable subfloor solution that can handle heavier load areas. Warmup’s StickyMat System was installed throughout the school’s bathrooms, which can be fitted directly within the layer of tile adhesive or levelling compound, therefore having little-to-no effect on floor heights. Our Tempo Thermostat was installed for accurate floor heat control alongside overall control by a Building Management System.The ResultThe beautiful and historic Sevenoaks Boarding School has now been given a 21st Century update with a responsive Warmup heating solution that didn’t substantially raise floor heights. The staff and pupils can now enjoy radiant warmth throughout the year, leading to better comfort levels and therefore a happier space in which to study and work.

A new waterproofing layer with time constraints.

The Elephant and Castle project, will incorporate 1000 apartments, retail, restaurants and leisure facilities along with new cutting-edge campus for London College of Communication with exhibition and cultural spaces. Will also include two underground and a mainline rail station, 28 bus routes, excellent road connections and one of London´s first Cycle Superhighways will ensure the development is easily accessed. Effisus Vapour FR System Class A2 was chosen to protect the insulation and building interior.

Royal Winchester HouseComer Homes is renowned for the high quality of its residential and commercial developments, which span London, Hertfordshire, Dorset and throughout the South East. Its latest project is Royal Winchester House, a landmark building of one and two bedroom apartments at the heart of Bracknell's new town centre. As a planning requirement of Bracknell Forest Council, Comer Homes was required to provide a sustainable, low energy form of heating that would offer a reduced carbon footprint, as well as being affordable to run.The SolutionComer Homes specified F730 Exhaust Air Heat Pump systems from NIBE for all 337 apartments on the development to ensure they could meet their renewable targets. The new homes builder employed MKP Consultants Limited to undertake the building services design as they had previous experience of NIBE systems on other apartment developments in the area.The NIBE F730 Exhaust Air Heat Pump system was an ideal solution, as it offers mechanical extract ventilation, alongside heating and hot water in a compact design. The heat pump units were installed in a service cupboard in each apartment, as they have a small footprint of only 0.6m2.NIBE F730 operates by recovering energy from the ventilation air and, if desired, extracted from outdoor air, the heat energy is absorbed by the heat pump using a vapour compression process and subsequently transferred to the water-borne heating system, in this case an underfloor heating system. The integrated 180L domestic hot water cylinder also ensures a plentiful supply for the one- and two-bedroom properties.A sustainable solution, NIBE F730 keeps energy consumption to a minimum. The efficient control system automatically adjusts the indoor climate for maximum comfort for the occupant, using a combination of weather compensated control and the low energy inverter driven compressor.Each apartment is also fitted with a NIBE RMU 40 room controller, to allow greater flexibility of control for users and if required can be easily connected to NIBE’s internet remotely monitoring and control platform UPLINK™.Thanks to this innovative heat pump system, residents at Royal Winchester House are set to benefit from lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint.The ResultsThe NIBE F730 system complies with Parts L, F and G of the building regulations, and helps to meet planning requirements designed to reduce energy consumption and carbon footprints within residential housing developments. External noise is kept to a minimum and building aesthetics are unaffected by the need for external plant.TestimonialHead of Projects at Comer Homes, Jack O’Brien explains: “We were looking for a heating and ventilation system that would be both sustainable and affordable to run. We have been impressed with the performance of NIBE’s heat pumps, with their high efficiency, low noise and low running costs further enhancing the sustainability of the whole development.”About Royal Winchester HouseRoyal Winchester House is a landmark building of high specification 1 and 2 bedroom apartments available to rent. The unique design and architecture of Royal Winchester House creates a striking and impressive presence from the ground floor retail spaces up to the luxury penthouse levels.Royal Winchester House has been built for the private rental market and the development is being managed by Chancellors estate agency. The apartments benefit from high standards of insulation and air tightness. In addition to the NIBE heat pumps, the whole development has been fitted with a biodigester for the repurposing of food waste, as part of reducing waste sent to landfill and to add to its sustainability.

Metalseal 20 was specified to re-brand a small industrial estate in Swindon. Roofs and external cladding were all stripped of existing finishes using vapour blasting. Cut edge corrosion was treated using SWT Primer and all metal surfaces were coated with BBA Approved Metalseal 20 roof & cladding coating. The finish is now graffiti proof, with any graffiti simply washing off with water, with no ghosting residue. The project is covered by the unique Liquasil latent defects insurance guarantee (including cover for professional design).

This elegant collection of apartments will benefit from far-reaching views towards the City, Regent’s Park and Hyde Park. With architecture by renowned architects Squire & Partners, this development comprises an approved scheme of 672 residential apartments with 24-hour concierge and business lounge, 25m pool, spa, gym, cinema room, entrance lobbies and receptions, private gardens. Servicing and parking for 286 vehicles is arranged over two basement levels. Effisus Vapour FR membrane Class A1 was chosen to protect the insulation and building interior.